Mexico hails Obama's action against Arizona immigration law

MEXICO CITY, July 6 (Xinhua) -- Mexico on Tuesday hailed U.S. President Barack Obama's decision to sue the state of Arizona over a controversial immigration law to block its enforcement.

"This decision of the U.S. Executive Power is added to the actions presented against the SB1070 Law (Arizona Law), including the lawsuit presented by a group of civil organizations," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The Arizona law, which criminalizes undocumented immigrants, will be enforced on July 29, unless a U.S. court impedes it.

Obama has voiced opposition to the law.

The Mexican government has provided support for lawsuits filed by U.S. civil organizations against the law.

The Mexican Foreign Ministry on Tuesday reaffirmed the sovereign right of all countries to adopt measures and public policies in their territories.

However, "when a measure like the SB1070 affects the civilians and human rights of thousands of Mexicans, the Mexican government has the obligation to protect the rights and dignity of its citizens," it said.

The Mexican Foreign Ministry said it would continue monitoring the process and remain committed to protecting the human rights of Mexican citizens living outside the country.

U.S. organizations estimate that some 6 million undocumented Mexican live in the United States.